M/Bca Amejara’s franchise was restricted to ferrying passengers “during daytime only” and solely between Davao City and the Island Garden City of Samal (IGACOS), according to records from the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) regional office. The vessel’s Certificate of Public Convenience (CPC), issued on February 6, 2024 and valid until February 6, 2026, specified it was authorized for tourism purposes and daytime operations only. The approved routes included Sta. Ana Wharf, Davao City, to various locations in IGACOS such as Coral Garden, Angel’s Cove, Vanishing Island, and Buenavista Island, and vice versa. Despite these restrictions, Amejara departed Sta. Ana Wharf at 8 p.m. on January 17 for a recreational fishing venture in Governor Generoso, Davao Oriental, beyond its authorized route. The boat carried 16 passengers and crew, including owner Ace Ryann C. Cortez, boat captain Patrocinio F. Genita III, and motorman Christian F. Genita II. On January 19, passenger Earlan Uyking sent a text message confirming the boat had sunk, and all onboard were safe but exhausted. Crew member Christopher Bulig, found drifting on January 20, is the sole survivor. Five bodies were recovered on January 24 and a sixth on January 25, with four identified. Nine remain missing. MARINA’s investigation focuses on permits and licenses, deferring to the Philippine Coast Guard for on-site enforcement and findings. Amejara’s Wooden-Hulled Recreational Boat (WHRB) Safety Certificate was issued on January 6, 2026, and valid until November 30, 2026, with an insurance policy covering 62 passengers and four crew.
